Alternative Dining for RVers in Charleston

What foods come to mind when you think of dining in Charleston, South Carolina? Definitely seafood. Crustaceans of all shapes and sizes. How about a Lowcountry oyster roast? Buttermilk fried chicken livers, shrimp and grits, or boiled green peanuts? Sure, you can find all of these foods and more when you visit the Lowcountry, but what if you’re an RVer that has a different palate? Maybe you prefer food that is grown on land rather than culled from the sea. Perhaps you’re vegan or following a gluten-free diet. Or, gulp, both. Well, you’re in luck because even those with alternative diets will find plenty to eat in Charleston. Below are just a few of my favorite dining establishments in Charleston.

Vegans and gluten-free diners can usually get away with eating well at Thai food restaurants. So, you’re in luck; there are at least six Thai food restaurants in the area. My favorite one, Tasty Thai & Sushi, is located downtown at 350 King Street. They serve generous portions and always use fresh vegetables. My favorite dish is the Massaman Curry with tofu and extra vegetables. Another notable Thai restaurant is Jasmine Thai, a darling little restaurant located at 807 Folly Road on James Island.

Another establishment, Patat Spot Friet & Falafel located at 41B George Street, is a fun little place that serves up tasty falafel and Dutch-style French fries. The fries are served with an eclectic selection of dipping sauces. They have vegan options as well as dedicated fryers for their gluten-free patrons. As a bonus, they even have gluten-free pita pockets!
There are two pizza places in town that cater to the vegan and gluten-free crowd. Mellow Mushroom has two locations in Charleston. Not only is their food excellent, but the atmosphere in any Mellow Mushroom is festive. They have a gluten-free pizza crust (not vegan) and also feature Daiya vegan cheese. Your Pie, located in West Ashley, is an excellent place to get some Daiya cheese and gluten free crust as well. Plus, you get the opportunity to watch them put the ingredients on your pizza.

Black Bean Co. has two locations in Charleston and serves organic food with an extensive vegan menu featuring a large assortment of vegan breakfast items and healthy wraps and salads.

If you're in the mood for something a little more southwestern style, then look no further than Moe's Southwest Grill. They have six locations in Charleston and feature vegan and gluten-free options. In fact, their Tofu Rice Bowl is both!

This is just a small sampling of the veg-friendly, gluten-free friendly offerings available in Charleston. Many of the more upscale restaurants, like Hominy Grill, Lowcountry Bistro, Five Loaves and Slightly North of Broad, feature gluten-free menu items and there are many more restaurants that cater to vegan diners. Of course, you can always grab food from Whole Foods and Earth Fare. So go ahead, plan your trip to the Lowcountry. You can still chow down!

Hot tip! Eat at most of the Charleston restaurants at lunchtime as I noticed that prices soared quite significantly for dinner.